After two injury-filled seasons, Andrei Markov sets poised to make his mark
on the 2012-2013 season. Woefully missed from the line-up the last two
years, Markov's return should
stabilize the defence core and spark the powerplay. But with two
significant injuries to the same knee, one must wonder if he has truly lost a
step. Will Markov regain his status as an elite defenceman, or are his
best days behind him?

2011-12

Markov returned to the Canadiens' roster for the last 13 games, and the rust
from missing the greater part of two seasons was evident. Although the
points weren't there, the skill level still clearly was, and Markov quietly
bolstered the defensive corps while playing reduced minutes. He still saw
significant minutes on the powerplay, but as the entire team struggled, so did
Markov, leaving him with the lowest point-per-game average of his career.

5-Year Averages

Even if Markov is at full health, it is uncertain if he will be playing the
same number of minutes he played prior to his injuries. P.K. Subban and
Josh Gorges formed a formidable shut-down duo last year, and will probably face
the opposition's top players again. This would leave Andrei with decreased
even-strength and penalty-killing minutes, but would likely give him dibs on the
first wave of the powerplay. Not only will this protect his seemingly
fragile body, but it should improve various fantasy category totals.
Markov's defensive partner is uncertain, although it is
assumed that he will be playing alongside his countryman, Alexei Emelin.
But depending on how the roster shakes out, he could be playing with
Yannick Weber or Raphael Diaz at even strength, and even Tomas Kaberle on the
PP.

Projected Stats

Markov's point contribution is one of the biggest question marks coming into
the 2012-13 season. Prior to his injuries, he hovered consistently around
50 points and put up between 20-30 powerplay points. Based on what we saw
last season, it's hard to expect similar numbers, but Markov's skill, off-season
conditioning and great hockey I.Q. may compensate for age and injuries. He
should still see plenty of time on the powerplay, and his plus-minus may be
improved by less defensive responsibilities. With his injuries, Markov
represents a high risk/high reward scenario, and should only be slotted as your
3rd or 4th defenceman, lest he lose a step (or a season). Most should
be apprehensive about drafting Markov at this point, so don't be afraid to let
him slide in your pre-draft rankings.